The 27-year-old wideman has helped his side to secure back-to-back Primeira Liga titles and is a player of real quality who looks set to move to Old Trafford if claims made by the player’s agent are to be believed.

The Argentine’s representative, Jose Irribaren, is quoted by the Daily Star as saying: “Everything is possible, there is a deal with Manchester United.

“The will of the player is that everything goes well.”

“We are waiting for a response from the vice-president, which is why I cannot say much more.” Irribaren added.

Man United’s interest in Gaitan dates back to Sir Alex Ferguson’s tenure (Via Daily Telegraph) and this latest report suggests a move to welcome the attacker to the Premier League is a distinct possibility.

On the face of it Man United boss Louis van Gaal retains a wealth of wide-attacking talent and one wonders where all of the players in the Dutchman’s armoury would fit in.

Last season Ashley Young and Juan Mata were Van Gaal’s regular first choice wingers, with record signing Angel di Maria missing portions of the season before being left on the bench for much of the final weeks of the campaign.

As well as this trio Van Gaal can also call upon youngster Adnan Januzaj and loaned out Portuguese international Nani and of course Man United have already signed PSV Eindhoven youngster Memphis Depay this summer.

Gaitan moved to the Portuguese capital in 2010, arriving soon after Benfica had sold Angel di Maria to Real Madrid, and after five seasons with the Estádio da Luz side the time is perhaps right for a fresh challenge in one of Europe’s ‘Big’ Leagues.

Having secured a return to the Champions League Louis van Gaal would do well to strengthen his squad in a push to mount a genuine push for major honours.